JSW Motors is gearing up to introduce SUVs in India. Among these is a car derived from Chery's iCaur V23, positioning it as a direct challenger to the upcoming Tata Harrier EV. Recent sightings of a heavily camouflaged test mule confirm active development, with the vehicle likely to carry a JSW badge under their partnership with the Chinese automaker. This marks JSW's second Chery-based model after the Jetour T2 plug-in hybrid.
The iCaur V23 enters a crowded midsize electric SUV segment, taking on rivals like the Mahindra BE 6, Maruti e Vitara, MG ZS EV, and Tata Curvv EV, while eyeing the larger Tata Harrier EV footprint. Here are the top five highlights that make it a noteworthy contender.
Also Read: Mahindra Scorpio N XL Brings More Space, Practicality - But There's A Catch
Dimensions and Space
Measuring 4,220mm long, 1,915mm wide, and 1,845mm tall with a 2,735mm wheelbase, it offers generous interior room. This setup rivals the Tata Harrier EV's stature, ensuring comfort for families on long drives.
Dual Powertrain Choices, Range
Chery offers the iCaur V23 in global markets, featuring two powertrain options: a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) configuration with 136 horsepower and 180 Nm of torque with a 59.93 kWh battery pack, and a more powerful all-wheel-drive (AWD) variant with 211 horsepower and 292 Nm of torque with an 81.76 kWh battery pack. The RWD model has a claimed range of 401 km based on the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle (CLTC), while the AWD version is said to achieve a maximum claimed range of 510 km on a single charge (also CLTC).
Also Read: 2026 Hyundai Verna: 5 Changes We Would've Loved to See
Performance and Fast Charging
In terms of performance, the RWD version accelerates from 0 to 100 kmph in 11 seconds, while the AWD variant does it in 7.5 seconds. Both models have a top speed of 140 kmph. Once the battery is drained, it can be juiced up using DC fast charging, which supports 85-104 kW speeds, minimising downtime for urban and highway use.
Also Read: Audi India Announces 2 Percent Price Hike Across Model Range Effective April 2026
Safety Rating
The Chery iCaur V23 has recently undergone the ASEAN NCAP v4 testing protocol. The electric SUV achieved an impressive five-star rating in the crash test. The test vehicle was manufactured in China and is available for sale in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Local Assembly and Strategic Timing
Set for production at JSW's Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar facility in Maharashtra, it aligns with 'Make in India' goals. Despite potential delays from import approvals, a 2026 debut could capitalise on growing EV demand. This iCar V23-based EV bolsters JSW's ambitions as an independent brand, outside its MG joint venture. With standout AWD and pricing.